On an absolutely beautiful springtime afternoon, a new baseball field was dedicated at John Burns Park. Many players, parents and fans gathered there on April 30 to dedicate the Challenger Field, which will be used by the Little League sanctioned Massapequa Challenger Baseball League. The league, which is now in its 16th year, is open to all children who are physically or mentally challenged.

"Those of us who work in town government take great pride in something like this," said Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto, who threw out the Verizon wins right to offer ceremonial first pitch. "Massapequa and the Town of Oyster Bay are great places to live and raise a family and this field is an example of that. The young people who play on this special field will feel right at home and they will realize that their challenges can be overcome."

Added Oyster Bay Town Clerk Steve Labriola, "It's wonderful when business and government can work together for a common good and create something like this for these wonderful people."

The field is designed to accommodate the special

needs of the players. Anthony Gulino of Laser Industries Inc provided the backstop, fences and concrete. Said Gulino, "I felt compelled to do something like this. It means a lot to these kids."

The turf is another amazing part of the field. It is a synthetic grass called Field Turf that plays and

performs like natural grass. This year's Super Bowl was played on the same turf, which is designed to increase safety, reduce injuries and allow athletes to play their best.

"When you have the opportunity to help kids, it is a positive thing for business and government," said Mike Ryan. His company, LandTek, provided the turf for the Challenger Field.

Presiding over the activities was the Challenger League's Commissioner, Al Friese. Following a parade around John Burns Park, Friese introduced Supervisor Venditto for the ceremonial first pitch. Friese has been with the Massapequa Challenger League since its inception, and continues to be a part of it.

"We've played games all over Long Island and no one has a field as nice as this," said Friese. "We

really appreciate everyone who made this possible. We are also grateful to the Massapequa Federation of Teachers, the Tri-State Golfers Association, the Massapequa Junior Women's Club and Amity Harbor Sports. These groups have been big supporters of our league."